Rifenburg Construction | Project Overviews

Whiteface Veteran’s Memorial Highway

Overview

Whiteface Veteran's Memorial Highway, one of the top scenic
roadways in the U.S., takes visitors to the mountain's peak
and 360-degree views of the Adirondack Park stretching into
Vermont and Canada. Rifenburg Construction made this historic
roadway accessible and functional, while retaining its unique
significance. Rifenburg
reconstructed the eight-mile
highway (with an 8-10 percent
grade) and selectively removed
trees while protecting rare
specimens. The project included
replacement of culverts, pipe lining,
ditch cleaning, repair and
restoration of historic quarry stone
walls, and installation of a new
water supply line between the pump station and the top of the
mountain.

Challenge

The road to the summit had to remain accessible to vehicles
seven days a week during the peak summer visitor’s season and
on weekends through October. Endangered plant species
needed to be identified and relocated for protection. In addition,
the mountain’s unpredictable weather meant scheduling had to
be flexible, with the option for nighttime work if needed.

Solution

Working closely with NYSDOT and ORDA, Rifenburg managed all
major construction without interrupting full access to the
summit during peak seasons. Working within strict
environmental guidelines, we preserved unique and endangered
tree species. Check dams were installed to prevent erosion of
ditch lines, and topsoil and ditch line seeding further reduced
erosion impact. Tuck pointing and stone repair/replacement of
walls using historic quarry stone were completed, as well as the
installation of septic tanks near “the castle” at the summit.
Roadway construction was paved to the binder course each
Friday to allow for public access every weekend. To expedite
construction, Rifenburg excavated the asphalt and macadam and
hauled it to a temporary waste area on the mountain. We limited
the exposure of milled surfaces by closely sequencing binder
paving operations, reducing the impact of truck traffic and
construction activity to the surfaces.

Result

From its start at the toll plaza, the newly-constructed highway
rises over 2,300 vertical feet to the spectacular summit.
Motorists can discover nine designated spots with information
signs explaining the site’s historic significance. The location
now boasts the best of modern construction and natural
heritage.

“Working on this
historic highway,
in the majesty of
Whiteface, is an
unforgettable
experience.”

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Our Mission

Since 1958, this family-owned business has satisfied customers with its dedication to the project, its emphasis on safety, and its ability to take on big challenges while getting the job done responsibly, on budget, and within the timeframe.